When Maileah agreed, Ryan got on the phone. “I’m impressed with the speed at which you work,” he said. “You seem to know more about gaining publicity than the company I hired for publicity of the Majestic does. I’d like to talk to you more about how you do this.”
She was surprised that Ryan wanted to speak to her. “I’d like to, but I’m busy with clients right now.”
“I’m afraid I didn’t make that clear. I’m interested inengaging you, not picking your brain for free. We could use your younger perspective.”
“And younger clientele?”
“The Majestic is unique. We offer an experience unlike any other branded hotel chain delivers. Deb’s interiors are giving the Majestic a much-needed facelift. When we’re ready to unveil the new guest rooms, I’d like to bring in influencers who can share their experiences here. Could you manage that?”
“That’s what I do. I’d be happy to work up a proposal for you.” Maileah tried to remain calm and upbeat, though she felt like screaming with joy.
“Call my office so we can find time on my schedule for after the surfing event.”
“Thank you, Ryan. I’ll be sure to do that.”
After saying goodbye, Ryan returned the phone to her mother.
“I had a feeling things would work out well for you here on the island, dear.”
Maileah let out a little squeal of joy. “That was amazing. I’ll call you later, Mom.”
Quickly, she finished getting ready. She and Sailor had a lot of work ahead of them. She hadn’t expected his help, but she sure wasn’t going to turn down the chance to spend more time with him, even if they were working.
24
By the time Skeeter was due to arrive, Maileah had the surging demand under control. Working in Sailor’s living room with the windows open to the breeze, she was focused on editing and uploading videos for promotion.
While she did that, Sailor called on fellow surfers for old, broken board donations and fielded questions online about his father.
With his help, Maileah had made more progress than she’d hoped. They’d accomplished so much.
The front door opened, and Skeeter rushed in. “I just dropped my things at Dad’s, and he is still walking on air. This is the most exciting thing that’s happened to him in years.”
“We’re thrilled, too.” Maileah greeted her with a hug. Skeeter already felt like a sister. “I’ve already enabled preorders for “Unbroken” on the charity’s site and linked back to the social media posts. The orders and donations are pouring in.”
“I’ve been answering all sorts of questions on his site, too,” Skeeter said.
Sailor gave his sister a high five. “I didn’t imagine there’d be so much support for the charityfrom off the island.”
“You had a lot to do with that,” Maileah said. “When you asked people to listen to your father’s song, many people thought that was touching.”
“Doesn’t hurt that they think you’re good-looking.” Skeeter shrugged. “I guess some people have no taste.”
“Hey,” Sailor said, wrapping an arm around her neck in mock protest.
Laughing, Skeeter wriggled out of his grasp. “I’m starving. Aren’t you going to offer me anything to eat?”
“You’re so demanding.” Sailor rolled his eyes. “We made a layered Mexican dip with guacamole, refried beans, tomatoes, and sour cream. Want that with tortilla chips?”
“Good enough,” Skeeter replied. “You wouldn’t happen to have an icy cold margarita to go with that?”
“I’ll see what I can find for you,” Sailor said.
After her brother disappeared into the kitchen, Skeeter turned to Maileah. “I’ve never seen Sailor or our father so happy. Our family needed this. You’re our good luck charm.”
Maileah laughed with her. “I love being around all of you.”
“Especially Sailor, right?” Skeeter waggled her eyebrows.
